Semen freezing after castration / euthanasia
Post-castration epididymal sperm extraction is a pioneering method of sperm collection that allows extraction when other methods are not viable. This procedure involves removing sperm from the epididymis of the testes and can be performed after routine castration, upon the animal’s death, or when the testes have suffered severe trauma or torsion. The latter, unplanned, terminal, or traumatic situations represent the most critical use of this technique.
The Epididymis - a valuable hub of sperm
The epididymis is a long, highly convoluted tubular duct that lies alongside the testes. Consisting of ahead, body and tail, the epididymis acts as a storage area and site of final maturation of sperm cells prior to ejaculation.
At any point, up to 62% of sperm cells in the epididymal duct can be found in the tail of the epididymis, providing a significant reservoir of potentially fertile semen that can be harvested post castration of the stallion. On average, for reproductively normal and sexually mature stallions, the total dose number recovered and frozen ranges from 20-70 doses.
Guidelines
Correct packing and shipping of the testicles are crucial for a successful outcome. Please contact our lab as soon as possible to ensure we are fully prepared to receive the testes.
- After the stallion undergoes standard castration, with one or both testes removed, the testicles should ideally be shipped to InnovumLab on the same day. The best results are achieved when sperm is extracted from the epididymides within 24 to 48 hours.
- Testicles should be wrapped separately, such as in nitrile gloves or food-grade plastic bags.
- During transport, the testicles should be kept at around 4-6°C.This can be achieved by placing them in a styrofoam container filled with ice cubes. Ensure there is no direct contact with the ice by wrapping the testicles in kitchen or paper towels before placing them on the ice.
How can we help?
Contact usYou are welcome to arrange a time to come and see us.